Have you ever wondered how asteroids, planets, meteors get their names and whether you can name them. The International Astronomical Union (IAU) has now decided to give you this rare opportunity.
The association has announced a worldwide competition to name one of Earth's half-moons.
Half-moons are asteroids that orbit the Sun on a path similar to Earth's, appearing to orbit our planet from an Earth-based perspective. Because of the relative motion of the two objects, it appears that the asteroid is orbiting the planet from the perspective of an observer on the planet's surface.
If a crescent moon is close to Earth, it may appear as if a new moon has arrived, even though it is not affected by Earth's gravity.
This unique opportunity, open until September 30, invites people around the world to suggest names that could receive official recognition by the IAU.
The contest, called “Name a Half-Moon!”, aims to engage a global audience with astronomy and highlight people's deep connection with celestial bodies.
The initiative was inspired by Radiolab co-host Latif Nasser's successful petition to the IAU earlier this year to name the half-moons of the planet Venus. The story, which went viral, sparked widespread interest in these fascinating celestial bodies.
The competition will take place in four stages. After the nomination period ends on September 30, a panel of experts will select 10 finalists in October. Public voting in November and December will determine the winning name, which will be officially announced in mid-January 2025.
Nasser said, “We are excited to bring people together around something that unites us across time zones, national boundaries, languages and all manner of differences – our shared sky.” He expressed excitement about engaging a global audience in the joy and wonder of science through this naming opportunity.
Participants are encouraged to submit creative and unique names that follow IAU naming conventions and relate to the science of the crescent moon.
The competition offers individuals a rare opportunity to make their mark on the universe, with the winning name receiving official recognition from the world's authority on astronomical nomenclature.